PURPOSE: This bibliometric review examined trends in the digital analysis of anatomical structures, focusing on volumetric analysis and segmentation studies from 2000 to 2025. The aim was to identify research patterns, c...PURPOSE: This bibliometric review examined trends in the digital analysis of anatomical structures, focusing on volumetric analysis and segmentation studies from 2000 to 2025. The aim was to identify research patterns, collaborations, and emerging themes, and to evaluate the influence of advances in artificial intelligence and medical imaging. METHODS: Articles indexed in the Web of Science Core Collection were analyzed using VOSviewer and Web of Science Analytics. A total of 3172 publications were assessed for trends in output, citations, authors, institutions, countries, and keyword networks. RESULTS: The rise in Artificial Intelligence and deep learning keywords after 2020 coincides with increasing publication output. The most cited authors were Ashburner, J. and Friston, K.J., and the most cited work was “A Survey on Deep Learning in Medical Image Analysis” by Litjens et al. (Med Image Anal 42:60–88, 2017. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.media.2017.07.005 ). Neuroanatomical research dominated, with the hippocampus and the brain as the most-studied structures. MRI, deep learning, and segmentation were leading keywords. Harvard University and the University of Johns Hopkins University ranked highest in productivity, while Neuroimage and IEEE Transactions on Medical Imaging ranked highest in influence. The USA led in both publication output and citations. CONCLUSION: Artificial Intelligence-driven digital technologies are increasingly shaping anatomical research. Despite a strong focus on neuroscience, peripheral organs and non-neurological applications remain underexplored, offering opportunities for future work in fields such as anatomy, orthopedics, and dentistry.
Sevivas N, Pinto M, Sousa DN
… +8 more, Barreira D, Ângelo AC, Azevedo C, da Silva MR, Claro R, Espregueira-Mendes J, Pereira H, Lädermann A
Surg Radiol Anat
· 2026 Mar · PMID 41824026
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Acromioclavicular joint (ACJ) dislocation is a frequent shoulder injury, and high-grade cases often require surgical reconstruction. Although multiple techniques have been described, no single method has achieved consens...Acromioclavicular joint (ACJ) dislocation is a frequent shoulder injury, and high-grade cases often require surgical reconstruction. Although multiple techniques have been described, no single method has achieved consensus as the gold standard. The long head of the biceps tendon (LHBT) represents an attractive autologous option, as it is anatomically adjacent to the ACJ, preserves vascularity when used as a pedicled graft, and reduces donor-site morbidity. Building on prior anatomical studies, this cadaveric investigation describes and validates an arthroscopic technique for ACJ reconstruction using the LHBT. The graft is mobilized while maintaining its supraglenoid origin, passed through a clavicular tunnel under endoscopic and fluoroscopic guidance, and reinforced vertically with a suspensory (suture-button) device passing independently through a coracoclavicular tunnel, and with an acromioclavicular cerclage to enhance horizontal stability. The procedure proved feasible, reproducible, and safe with respect to anatomical landmarks and adjacent structures.Clinical relevance: This technique offers a biologically sound, minimally invasive alternative for ACJ reconstruction that may reduce morbidity and improve reproducibility compared with conventional graft-based procedures.
PURPOSE: The supraorbital keyhole approach is a minimally invasive technique for treating lesions in the anterior and middle cranial fossa. A major complication of this procedure is injury to the temporal branch of the f...PURPOSE: The supraorbital keyhole approach is a minimally invasive technique for treating lesions in the anterior and middle cranial fossa. A major complication of this procedure is injury to the temporal branch of the facial nerve. This study aimed to define safe surgical zones for the lateral borders of the incision to minimize facial nerve injuries. METHODS: This study examined 15 formalin-fixed adult cadaveric heads (30 sides). The temporal branches of the facial nerve were dissected using a surgical microscope. Three distances were measured using anatomical landmarks: (M1) horizontal distance between the supraorbital notch and facial nerve branches, (M2) vertical distance between the frontozygomatic junction and facial nerve branches, and (M3) horizontal distance between the lateral orbital rim and facial nerve branches. RESULTS: The mean distances were as follows: M1 = 48.96 ± 2.10 mm, M2 = 9.48 ± 0.83 mm, and M3 = 14.80 ± 0.99 mm. All measurements showed significant correlations (p < 0.001). Measurement precision was excellent (TEM 0.14-0.17 mm; rTEM 0.30%-1.74%; R 0.9628-0.9952). Despite intricate and variably interconnected temporal branch patterns, branches consistently lay outside the proposed safe zones. CONCLUSION: Based on the absolute minimum anatomical measurements, we defined the safe incision limits as 44 mm laterally from the supraorbital notch, 8 mm inferior to the frontozygomatic junction, and 13 mm laterally from the lateral orbital rim. Following these safe zones may reduce the risk of facial nerve injury and improve the outcomes of the procedure.
Surg Radiol Anat
· 2026 Mar · PMID 41790242
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The gastrocnemius (GM), a superficial posterior leg muscle, consists of medial and lateral heads and drives ankle plantarflexion and knee flexion. The morphological variability of this muscle has been extensively studied...The gastrocnemius (GM), a superficial posterior leg muscle, consists of medial and lateral heads and drives ankle plantarflexion and knee flexion. The morphological variability of this muscle has been extensively studied, especially the presence of a third head. Here, a novel five-headed configuration of the GM was identified during the cadaveric dissection of a 30-year-old male. The right GM exhibited five distinct heads, each with independent vascular and neural supply, whereas the contralateral limb displayed a three-headed configuration including a gastrocnemius tertius (GT). Detailed morphometric assessment was performed, and the developmental proximal attachment of the supernumerary heads and its clinical implications were discussed. Although often asymptomatic, these variants can alter biomechanics, narrow the popliteal corridor, and increase the risk of vascular or musculotendinous injury and misdiagnosis. Recognition of complex GM anatomy is therefore essential for surgeons and radiologists. Thus, this case highlights the developmental variability of the posterior leg compartment and underscores the importance of recognizing rare GM variants to ensure accurate diagnosis and safe clinical management.
PURPOSE: The data regarding the tracheal morphometry in India, especially in vivo setting in healthy adults, is scarce. The current study aimed to assess tracheal morphometry in the North Indian population using computed...PURPOSE: The data regarding the tracheal morphometry in India, especially in vivo setting in healthy adults, is scarce. The current study aimed to assess tracheal morphometry in the North Indian population using computed tomography (CT) scans and to explore its potential impact on pulmonary functions. METHODS: The study was a cross-sectional, observational design conducted in a north-Indian tertiary-care hospital. Participants included adults (> 18 years) undergoing CT thorax for non-respiratory symptoms. Exclusion criteria included significant smoking history, abnormal lung parenchyma, or prior thoracic surgery. Tracheal measurements (length, transverse diameters, and anteroposterior diameter) were taken. Pulmonary function was assessed with spirometry, focusing on Forced-Vital-Capacity (FVC), Forced-Expiratory-Volume (FEV₁), and the FEV₁/FVC ratio. RESULTS: The mean age of the study population was 60.21years, and the majority were males (82.9%). The study found significant variation in tracheal dimensions across participants, with the tracheal diameter at various levels: 1.70 cm at the C7 vertebra, 1.84 cm at the upper border of the arch of the aorta, and 2.16 cm at one centimeter above the carina. The trachea had a consistent length of 13.43 cm across the population. Tracheal dimensions showed significant differences based on sex, with males having larger diameters. However, only the diameter of the left main bronchus showed a weak correlation with the FEV₁/FVC ratio. CONCLUSION: This study provides essential baseline data on tracheal morphometry in the North Indian population. The lack of correlation between tracheal dimensions and pulmonary functions suggests that while anatomical variations are prevalent, they may not directly impact lung function in a clinically significant manner.
PURPOSE: Anatomic variations of the portal venous system are clinically important, yet bilateral umbilical portions (UPs) of the portal vein are extremely rare, particularly when accompanied by paired ligamenta teres wit...PURPOSE: Anatomic variations of the portal venous system are clinically important, yet bilateral umbilical portions (UPs) of the portal vein are extremely rare, particularly when accompanied by paired ligamenta teres within a single falciform ligament. We describe this exceptional configuration and discuss its clinical implications. METHODS: An 82-year-old man underwent preoperative evaluation for pancreaticoduodenectomy. Contrast-enhanced multidetector CT and three-dimensional reconstruction were performed to assess tumor resectability and hepatobiliary anatomy. Intraoperative inspection of the falciform and round ligaments was undertaken during surgery. RESULTS: Imaging demonstrated two distinct umbilical portions arising from the main portal vein and extending toward the right and left umbilical fissures. Cord-like structures compatible with paired ligamenta teres were visualized from the blind ends of each UP. Intraoperatively, both ligamenta teres were confirmed and were found to converge cranially into a single falciform ligament on the diaphragmatic surface of the liver. No biliary or arterial anomalies were identified. Pancreaticoduodenectomy was completed uneventfully, and the patient remained recurrence-free for five years. CONCLUSION: This rare arrangement may reflect symmetrical persistence of vitelline venous channels during portal venous morphogenesis. Awareness of this variation is important to avoid radiologic misinterpretation and to prevent misidentification of hepatic landmarks during hepatobiliary surgery.
Surg Radiol Anat
· 2026 Mar · PMID 41784790
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PURPOSE: The occipital artery (OA) is routinely encountered during posterior fossa and far-lateral craniocervical exposures and serves as a donor vessel for cerebrovascular bypass procedures. Despite its surgical importa...PURPOSE: The occipital artery (OA) is routinely encountered during posterior fossa and far-lateral craniocervical exposures and serves as a donor vessel for cerebrovascular bypass procedures. Despite its surgical importance, there is no standardised imaging-based classification of the OA course within the atlanto-occipital interval. This study aimed to characterise OA topography using computed tomography angiography (CTA) and develop a clinically applicable classification system. METHODS: This retrospective observational study analysed 200 occipital arteries in 100 adult subjects using head-and-neck CTA. A dual-parameter classification was developed based on: (1) the primary type, describing the OA relationship to the occipital sulcus (Types 1-3), and (2) the vertical position relative to the atlas transverse process, including mastoid-transverse process overlap status. RESULTS: Three primary types were identified based on the OA-sulcus relationship: Type 1 (intrasulcal), Type 2 (infrasulcal), and Type 3 (distanced). The vertical position was classified as supraatlantal, atlantal, or infraatlantal. Type 1 (intrasulcal) was most prevalent (54.0%), followed by Type 3 (distanced, 25.5%) and Type 2 (infrasulcal, 20.5%). Supraatlantal positioning predominated (61.5%). Type 1 arteries demonstrated significantly lower infraatlantal rates (5.6%) compared to Types 2 (26.8%) and 3 (25.5%) (p < 0.0001). Mastoid-transverse process overlap occurred in 15.5% and was independent of primary type. Bilateral type symmetry was present in 61.0% of subjects. Subset analysis (n = 30 subjects) revealed a mean OA luminal diameter of 1.29 ± 0.39 mm, with 88.3% of arteries demonstrating tortuosity. CONCLUSION: This CTA-based classification provides a structured framework for preoperative assessment of OA topography. The association between intrasulcal course and supraatlantal positioning may inform surgical planning for far-lateral exposures and OA harvest for bypass procedures.
PURPOSE: Loss of independence is a major issue for quadriplegic patients. Restoring active wrist extension is essential to improving their autonomy. We aim to evaluate the feasibility of neurotization of the brachialis m...PURPOSE: Loss of independence is a major issue for quadriplegic patients. Restoring active wrist extension is essential to improving their autonomy. We aim to evaluate the feasibility of neurotization of the brachialis muscle nerve on branches destined to the extensor carpi radialis muscles. METHODS: 30 upper limbs were dissected to analyze the anatomy and morphometry of the radial nerve, the musculocutaneous nerve, and the distance between the brachial nerve and the nerve branches of the radial extensor muscles of the carpus. RESULTS: There was a variability in the positioning and number of nerve branches in the muscles studied. Neurotization requires an interposed nerve graft, with an estimated average length of 83 mm for the Extensor Carpi Radialis longus and 121.5 mm for the Extensor Carpi Radialis Brevis. CONCLUSION: restoring wrist extension through a neurotization of the Extensor Carpi Radialis Brevis is feasible. This non-mutilating technique could restore wrist extension. It is indicated for patients with high or moderate tetraplegia, where elbow flexion and extension are preserved. However, further clinical studies are needed to evaluate the efficacy and long-term results of this technique. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Level IV.
PURPOSE: The carotid canal transmits the internal carotid artery through the skull base. The external opening of the carotid canal (EOCC) is frequently used as a reference point in radiological imaging and lateral skull...PURPOSE: The carotid canal transmits the internal carotid artery through the skull base. The external opening of the carotid canal (EOCC) is frequently used as a reference point in radiological imaging and lateral skull base surgery. However, quantitative data regarding EOCC morphology and its precise spatial relationships with adjacent foramina and bony structures remain limited. METHODS: A total of 45 adult dry human skulls (90 sides) were examined. The maximum anteroposterior (APD) and lateromedial diameters (LMD) of the EOCC were measured, and EOCC morphology was classified into three types according to predefined morphometric ratios. The positional relationships of the EOCC were determined relative to the foramen ovale (FO) and the occipital condyle (OC). In addition, linear distances between the EOCC and adjacent anatomical landmarks, including the foramen spinosum, foramen jugulare, zygomatic orifice, mastoid process, and lateral plate of the pterygoid process, were recorded. All morphometric data were obtained using a digital caliper with a precision of 0.01 mm, and statistical analyses were performed using SPSS software. RESULTS: The most common EOCC configuration was Type 2, characterized by an APD greater than the LMD without exceeding twice the LMD (94.45%). The EOCC was most frequently located in oblique and anterolateral positions relative to the FO and the OC, respectively. CONCLUSION: The results provide detailed morphometric and positional data on the EOCC and contribute to a more standardized anatomical description of this region. These findings may serve as reference information for anatomical research, radiological evaluation, and surgical planning involving the lateral skull base.
PURPOSE: The extensor indicis muscle is an important muscle of the deep layer of the posterior compartment of the forearm, as it allows independent extension of the index finger. Numerous forms of variations of the exten...PURPOSE: The extensor indicis muscle is an important muscle of the deep layer of the posterior compartment of the forearm, as it allows independent extension of the index finger. Numerous forms of variations of the extensor indicis muscle have been reported. This case report aims to describe a rare unilateral presence of an accessory muscle belly of the extensor indicis. CASE REPORT: An incidental finding during the routine dissections of the posterior compartments of the forearm and the dorsum of the hand is presented. The spindle-shaped accessory muscle of the extensor indicis originated from the distal third of the ulna and inserted onto the tendon of the normal extensor indicis muscle just before entering the fourth osseofibrous tunnel of the extensor retinaculum of the wrist. CONCLUSION: This case report shows a rare variation pattern of the extensor indicis muscle; an accessory head/belly that originates in the distal ulna and insert onto the main tendon of the extensor indicis at the level of the wrist joint. Knowledge of the variations of the extensor indicis muscle may be important for clinicians for the appropriate diagnosis and management of wrist and hand conditions.
de Laclause MP, Morel B, Laure B
… +1 more, Morice A
Surg Radiol Anat
· 2026 Feb · PMID 41758368
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BACKGROUND: Orbital growth represents a key component of craniofacial development to investigate due to the many craniofacial abnormalities which can interfere with it. Defining orbital growth patterns is essential for d...BACKGROUND: Orbital growth represents a key component of craniofacial development to investigate due to the many craniofacial abnormalities which can interfere with it. Defining orbital growth patterns is essential for distinguishing physiological from pathological orbital development. Normative orbital growth data in Caucasian paediatric populations remain scarce. OBJECTIVE: Our study aimed to determine interorbital distance in a healthy Caucasian children population. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A retrospective study was conducted in France, based on craniofacial CT scans measurements in patients aged from 3 months to 10 years. Measurements were taken at the neuro-ocular plane and included the bony inner interorbital distance (IOD), bony lateral orbital distance (LOD), and IOD/LOD ratio. Mean +/- SD was calculated for each age group, and comparisons between sexes and age groups were performed using the Mann-Whitney test (p < 0.05). RESULTS: A total of 466 CT-scans were analysed (216 females and 250 males). The mean IOD increased progressively, from 18.76 +/- 1.17 mm at 3 months to 22.79 +/- 1.73 mm at 10 years of age. The most important increase of IOD and LOD values was observed during the first 2 years of age (p < 0.01) and between 7 and 8 years of age (p < 0.05). The IOD/LOD ratio remained constant with age, showing isometric growth of the orbits. CONCLUSION: This study provides detailed normative data of orbital measurements in Caucasian children and highlights two critical periods of accelerated orbital growth.
PURPOSE: Visualizing the suprascapular notch on radiographic images is challenging. Sonography of the suprascapular notch in the clinical practice had been performed only from a superior shoulder approach projecting a po...PURPOSE: Visualizing the suprascapular notch on radiographic images is challenging. Sonography of the suprascapular notch in the clinical practice had been performed only from a superior shoulder approach projecting a posterior view. Sonographic anterior view of the suprascapular notch has not been presented in the clinical practice. We provide anatomically based ultrasound-probe techniques to capture optimal sonograms exposing the suprascapular canal topography and its key structures. METHODS: Sonography of the superior shoulder region was bilaterally experimented on ten young healthy (five females and five males) volunteers of age ± 23. We experimented scanning the superior and anterior area of the shoulder at differing angles with ultrasound probe explorative manipulations. Different shoulder maneuvers were attempted in seated and lying positions. Age, sex, BMI, and shoulder thickness were recorded. The visibility of the sonograms was compared based on the obtained parameters. In addition, ultrasound-guided tunnel insertion was performed on a fresh cadaver beside formalin fixed cadaveric dissection for confirmation and illustration of the suprascapular canal anatomy. RESULTS: A comprehensive protocol was constructed and tested yielding satisfactory sonographic visualization of the suprascapular canal and notch. The sonographic visibility and its quality seemed to be not affected by the BMI directly but primarily by the shoulder thickness with better visibility in females compared to males. CONCLUSION: We provide a four stepwise shoulder and ultrasound-probe maneuvers protocol yielding an anterior sonographic visibility of the suprascapular notch. This manual provides technical gains in ultrasound-guided clinical practices targeting the suprascapular nerve as it courses through the suprascapular canal.
PURPOSE: Visualizing the check ligaments of extraocular muscles is essential to understand their role as stabilizers of the extra-ocular muscles, acting as their antagonists. Although all extraocular muscles are expected...PURPOSE: Visualizing the check ligaments of extraocular muscles is essential to understand their role as stabilizers of the extra-ocular muscles, acting as their antagonists. Although all extraocular muscles are expected to have corresponding check ligaments, this is not consistently documented in anatomical literature. This study aims to clarify the check ligaments using acquired high-resolution true color sectioned images and surface modeling. METHODS: From the sectioned images of one male cadaver, the check ligaments and related structures were outlined and surfaces models were reconstructed using 3D Slicer and Maya to analysis their morphology. RESULTS: The seven check ligaments corresponding to the seven extraocular muscles, along with the supporting ligaments, were clearly delineated. Previously unrecognized attachment points of the check ligaments, especially to fasciae, were highlighted. In addition to exploring in more detail the tendinous role of Whitnall’s ligament and Lockwood’s ligament, we focused on the morphology of the ligaments on the lower eyelid. CONCLUSION: Through the reconstruction of surface models based on true color sectioned images, we were able to differentiate all extraocular check ligaments and supporting structures, aligning to their respective roles.
Surg Radiol Anat
· 2026 Feb · PMID 41739175
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The styloid process (SP) of the temporal bone is well-documented for its morphological variability, yet the distinction between true absence and pseudo-absence remains poorly defined in the literature. This study critica...The styloid process (SP) of the temporal bone is well-documented for its morphological variability, yet the distinction between true absence and pseudo-absence remains poorly defined in the literature. This study critically examines published reports of SP absence and proposes clear terminological criteria to differentiate these entities. True absent SP denotes aplasia of both tympanohyal and stylohyal segments, whereas pseudo-absent SP indicates a hypomineralised tympanohyal concealed beneath the vaginal process of the tympanic plate. Analysis of the literature indicates that previous studies using CT, panoramic radiography, and dry skull analysis have frequently conflated these variants, with some authors misidentifying the inferiorly projecting vaginal process as a duplicate or short SP. This critical reappraisal was prompted by a cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) case demonstrating bilateral pseudo-absent SPs in a 39-year-old female, in which low-density tympanohyal segments (10.5 mm) were entirely masked by extensively developed vaginal processes (15.5 mm). To our knowledge, this represents the first CBCT-documented case of this morphology and only the third reported evidence, following dry-skull observations. Accurate differentiation between true and pseudo-absent SP has implications for radiological interpretation, surgical planning, and understanding stylohyoid complex development.
Dos Santos Silva TDC, de Medeiros Neto EJF, Filho LCF
… +7 more, Christino MG, da Silva de Lima NM, da Conceição Nascimento Neto AF, Monteiro AM, Brito JRN, Neto MR, de Souza Corrêa AC
PURPOSE: To evaluate morphometric correlation between the interventricular foramen and pars opercularis through MRI. METHODS: This retrospective, cross-sectional, and observational study analyzed 90 cerebral hemispheres...PURPOSE: To evaluate morphometric correlation between the interventricular foramen and pars opercularis through MRI. METHODS: This retrospective, cross-sectional, and observational study analyzed 90 cerebral hemispheres from patients treated at Ophir Loyola Hospital. Volumetric T1-weighted MRI sequences (1-mm slices) were processed in 3D Slicer. Distances between the interventricular foramen and pars opercularis were measured along the X (anteroposterior), Y (superoinferior), and Z (laterolateral) axes. Pearson’s correlation and t-tests were applied for statistical analysis. RESULTS: The Pars Opercularis was predominantly anterior (9.96 mm) and superior (2.62 mm) to the interventricular foramen, with a mean linear distance of 45.21 mm. Significant lateral differences were observed: the right hemisphere exhibited a greater linear distance (46.52 mm) than the left (43.90 mm). Age did not demonstrate a statistically significant correlation with the laterolateral dimension (Z-axis) or other measured variables. CONCLUSION: The Interventricular Foramen maintains a consistent spatial relationship with the pars opercularis, with stable positioning and subtle hemispheric differences. These findings refine anatomical knowledge and contribute to neurosurgical planning, particularly in procedures requiring precise anatomical references, such as ventricular surgeries and resections near eloquent cortical areas.
PURPOSE: To translate palmaris longus (PL) morphological variability into an operational, clinically usable risk framework that unifies anatomy, imaging, and surgery. METHODS: Narrative review and framework development....PURPOSE: To translate palmaris longus (PL) morphological variability into an operational, clinically usable risk framework that unifies anatomy, imaging, and surgery. METHODS: Narrative review and framework development. Building on contemporary anatomical classification of the PL, we define a three-level clinical-risk (CR) stratification (CR-1/CR-2/CR-3) that couples type/subtype with the relationship to the median nerve. We specify a minimal reporting core for ultrasound and MRI (Imaging Minimum Dataset) and develop two concise clinical pathways: a diagnostic workflow and a harvest decision tree. No new patient data were collected. RESULTS: The framework standardises radiological reporting by requiring explicit statement of presence, type/subtype, nerve relations, and estimated graftable length, culminating in a CR designation. This shared language links imaging outputs directly to operative planning, clarifies when decompression is indicated, and identifies when the PL is an appropriate donor versus when alternatives should be preferred. The pathways distil key safeguards to reduce misidentification and protect the median nerve while maintaining procedural efficiency. CONCLUSIONS: A risk-oriented reinterpretation of PL variability provides a clear bridge from anatomy to imaging and surgery. The CR framework and associated pathways support consistent reporting, safer tendon harvest, and targeted decompression, and they are suitable for prospective validation of reproducibility, imaging–surgery concordance, and patient-centred outcomes.
We report an observation of a right aortic arch with an isolated left subclavian artery (Edwards III-C) occurring in association with a supernumerary transitional cervicothoracic vertebra. As a unique feature, reconstitu...We report an observation of a right aortic arch with an isolated left subclavian artery (Edwards III-C) occurring in association with a supernumerary transitional cervicothoracic vertebra. As a unique feature, reconstitution of the left subclavian artery involved a left vertebral arteria lusoria, resulting in the formation of a composite anomalous vessel that mimicked an aberrant subclavian artery, followed a retroesophageal course, and passed through the foramen transversarium of the supernumerary vertebra.
PURPOSE: To elucidate morphological characteristics of the splenic artery (SA) arising from the superior mesenteric artery (SMA). METHODS: Contrast-enhanced CT images of 13 patients with SA arising from SMA were retrospe...PURPOSE: To elucidate morphological characteristics of the splenic artery (SA) arising from the superior mesenteric artery (SMA). METHODS: Contrast-enhanced CT images of 13 patients with SA arising from SMA were retrospectively analyzed. Gross appearance of SA arising from SMA was observed on volume-rendering 3D images. Additionally, we measured the following lengths m each patient on the appropriate multiplanar reformation (MPR) images; (A) the distance from the origin of SMA to the origin of SA, (B) SA length from the origin of SA to the point which is at the shortest distance from the celiac artery (CA), (C) the shortest distance between CA and SA, (D) the distance from the origin of SA to the origin of the middle colic artery. RESULTS: In all 13 patients, SA arising from SMA showed similar course. It first runs cranially toward the point which is very close to CA, and then curves toward the left and afterwards runs along almost the same course as the conventional SA. The shortest distance between SA and CA (distance C) was 3.3 ± 1.4 [mm]. CONCLUSION: SA arising from SMA invariably shows characteristic morphology. This characteristic morphology suggests that longitudinal anastomosis between primitive CA and SMA may be the developmental basis of this variant vascular anatomy.
PURPOSE: The suprascapular (SSN) and axillary (AXN) nerves are vital for shoulder mobility and are at notable risk for injury during glenohumeral surgeries due to their proximity to key anatomical landmarks. This systema...PURPOSE: The suprascapular (SSN) and axillary (AXN) nerves are vital for shoulder mobility and are at notable risk for injury during glenohumeral surgeries due to their proximity to key anatomical landmarks. This systematic review evaluates their anatomical positioning relative to the glenohumeral joint and highlights the clinical significance of these relationships in shoulder procedures. METHODS: A thorough literature search across PubMed, MEDLINE, and Google Scholar (2018-2025) yielded 424 studies. After applying inclusion criteria, 21 articles-including clinical, cadaveric, and systematic reviews-were selected to assess nerve pathways, anatomical variations, injury rates, and surgical relevance. RESULTS: The pooled incidence of SSN injury was 0.03 (95% CI: 0.00-0.08), indicating an extremely low occurrence across studies. In contrast, the pooled incidence of AXN injury was 0.07 (4%) [95% CI: 0.01-0.18], reflecting a higher but still uncommon risk. Meta-regression showed a significant association between longer follow-up duration and increased reporting of AXN injuries (p = 0.0005), whereas this relationship was not significant for SSN injuries (p = 0.3612). Significant publication bias was detected for both nerves (AXN: p = 0.0016; SSN: p < 0.0001). Overall, AXN injuries occurred in approximately 1% of cases-more frequent than SSN injuries, which were nearly absent in pooled analysis. CONCLUSION: Anatomical variability in the SSN and AXN significantly influences the likelihood of nerve injury during shoulder surgery. Utilizing preoperative imaging, tailoring surgical approaches to individual anatomy, and employing intraoperative nerve monitoring are essential strategies for minimising nerve damage. Enhanced anatomical education-through cadaveric dissection and surgical simulation-should be emphasised to reinforce knowledge. These findings support adopting nerve-sparing, patient-specific surgical techniques to improve safety and outcomes in shoulder procedures.